My local ferry, Seastreak, has been running a cruise to Bear Mountain, NY. I remember the local tv commercials in the 1960s, advertising a similar cruise from NYC. I think Bob Dylan must have seen those commercials too. He basically did a Yelp review in the folksinging form and style of Woody Guthrie, way back then.

So, thanks to Dylan's review, we decided maybe we should drive instead. I do think the boat ride is a better way to go, if you go for the Octoberfest, because you don't want to be driving afterwards. It was a bit wild when we got there. At noon there were crowds in the beer garden, already chugging and cheering. (You can also get a glass of wine, but it does not flow as freely.) We had some Octoberfest food and drink. The park is really beautiful, but full of people. After hiking a bit, we got in the car to explore the area.

An unexpected delight, we found Manitoga, the home and design center of Russel Wright. His home, called Dragon Rock, is incredible. Look how it is nestled in the rock and trees. As you approach it from the forest, it slowly dawns on you that there is a building. The stepping stone bridge is fabulous. Aww...live there and you can be inspired to define the mid-Century Modern style!

Just down the road, we found Boscobel house and gardens. The views are breathtaking, reminding me of 18th century folk painting scenes. I especially loved the herb garden.

Next post, I'll share the contemporary metal sculpture that I found on the grounds of Boscobel. As a metalsmith, it fascinated me.

Have you ever been to the Bear Mountain and Hudson River Valley region? There are many more interesting places to visit there. I'd like to explore the area some more. Let me know your favorite spots.